Apple Unveils G4 iBooks

Apple Computer today announced major revisions to its iBook line, upgrading all models to G4 processors and adding USB 2.0, Combo CD-R/DVD-ROM drives which can burn CDs and read DVD media, and a minimum of 256 MB of RAM. The new iBook G4s also offer optional support for Airport Extreme 802.11g wireless networking, and ship with Mac OS X 10.3 Panther pre-installed. Three iBook G4 configurations are available: at the low end, the $1,100 model offers a 12.1-inch screen (1,024 by 768 resolution), an 800 MHz G4 processor, a 30 GB hard drive, and a scant weight of 4.9 pounds (2.2. kg). The $1,400 model sports a 14.1-inch screen (still 1,024 by 768 pixels), a 933 MHz G4 processor, a 40 GB drive, and a weight of 5.9 pounds (2.7 kg). Finally, the high-end $1,600 configuration offers the same 14.1-inch screen, a 1 GHz G4 processor, and 60 GB drive at the same 5.9 pound weight. Apple says the iBook G4 configuration with the 12.1-inch screen is available immediately, while models with a 14.1-inch screen will be available next week. All models offer two USB 2.0 ports, a FireWire 400 port, VGA video output, support for S-video and composite video out, a 56 Kbps V.92 modem, 10/100-BaseT Ethernet, and up to six hours of battery life. Optional capabilities include Airport Extreme 802.11g wireless networking support; an internal Bluetooth module for peripherals such as some cell phones, PDAs, and Apple’s new wireless keyboard and mouse; and support for up to 640 MB of RAM.